Paperbark tree

The Paperbark tree is also known as the Punk tree, Melaleuca, Cajeput, and Tea tree. It is native to Australia and nearby islands. The tree grows in moist areas and often on silty soil. In France it is known as Niaouli.

Paperbark grows as a spreading tree up to 70' tall. The tree trunk is covered by a spongy, soft, papery bark of white, cream and grey colors that peels away. The 3"-4" long leaves are silvery green and slightly sickle-shaped. Off-white, bottlebrush-like flowers are arranged in cylindrical spikes up to 4" long on the ends of branches. The fruit of the tree consists of woody, broadly cylindrical, long capsules about 1/2" in size that are clustered and grow spike-like along the branches. Each capsule contains a multitude of tiny seeds which are annually released.

Paperbark flowers from late spring to autumn. It grows well in poor soils.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Paperbark trees are commonly used as windbreaks in Hawai`i and for reforestation of degraded and flooded areas
• A medicinal oil is distilled from the leaves